Jenny Simpson: A Journey of Resilience and Determination
A Passion for Running
Jenny Simpson, a 38-year-old from Colorado, will be making her debut in this year’s TCS New York City marathon, produced by New York Road Runners. With a remarkable running career, including three Olympic appearances and a World Athletics Championship, Simpson is looking to add another milestone to her impressive list of achievements.
From Elementary School to the Olympics
Simpson’s passion for running began in elementary school when her gym teacher encouraged her parents to enroll her in an after-school cross-country program. She recalled an early memory of running around in loops, collecting popsicle sticks for every lap she ran. "That little bit of encouragement from a PE teacher charted a course that no one could have dreamed or imagined all the way to the Olympic games," Simpson said.
A Journey of Triumph and Adversity
Simpson’s journey is not without its challenges. In 2021, a devastating fire in her hometown of Colorado displaced her and her family for three months. Simpson credited the resilience of her community, saying, "You’re just there for people that need you, and you show up. You might not have a task or job that’s obvious right away, but it’ll show up and you do it."
A New Chapter in Her Career
In February, Simpson unexpectedly dropped out of the Olympic marathon trials after feeling unwell. The experience was a significant disappointment, and she reflected, "It was a really big disappointment. My attainable goal that day was just to finish, and I wasn’t even able to do that." Despite this setback, Simpson has continued to push forward, transitioning into marathon running and facing the challenges that come with it.
Learning to Adapt
Simpson acknowledged that her experience in the mile does not directly translate to the marathon. "Just learning that what I was good at before doesn’t always transfer and I have to learn new skills, and I have to be willing to rest and be willing to do hard things," she said. Her goal for the TCS NYC Marathon is to achieve a new personal record, but more importantly, to give it her all and arrive at the finish line with nothing left.
Conclusion
Jenny Simpson’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. From her early days in elementary school to her Olympic appearances, Simpson has faced numerous challenges and overcome them with grit and perseverance. As she takes on the TCS NYC Marathon, she remains committed to her goal of giving it her all and leaving everything on the course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Jenny Simpson’s goal for the TCS NYC Marathon?
A: Simpson’s goal is to achieve a new personal record and give it her all, arriving at the finish line with nothing left.
Q: What is Simpson’s experience in the mile compared to the marathon?
A: Simpson noted that her experience in the mile does not directly translate to the marathon, requiring a different kind of mental focus and longer duration.
Q: How does Simpson stay motivated and focused during her training?
A: Simpson credits the resilience of her community and her own determination, saying, "You’re just there for people that need you, and you show up. You might not have a task or job that’s obvious right away, but it’ll show up and you do it."
